Wise Words Regarding A Fool

Today is April 1, 2015. It is also known as “April Fool’s Day.” Perhaps there are those that try to pull a prank on someone, causing them to feel foolish. A man of God should not be foolish, but instead be wise. Let us consider a few wise words regarding the fool (Proverbs 26:1-12).

In Proverbs 26:1, Solomon explains that snow is not fitting in summer; nor is rain fitting in harvest. Likewise, honor is not fitting to a fool.

In Proverbs 26:3, Solomon says a whip is needed to guide the horse, and a bridle for the donkey. Likewise, a rod is needed for the fool’s back. David says that the horse or mule has no understanding, and must be harnessed with a bit and bridle (Psalm 32:9). Just as one beats them to guide them, Solomon earlier stated “judgments are prepared for scoffers, and beatings for the backs of fools (Proverbs 19:29).

In Proverbs 26:4-5, a warning is issued not to answer a fool according to his folly. We should not be like them, but rather set the example for them. Sometimes it is best not to answer anything; other times it is best to give a soft answer, turning away wrath (Proverbs 15:1).

In Proverbs 26:6-7, a warning is given on the thought of trusting a fool. They may not deliver the message accurately, and cause the sender of the message harm from the receiver.

In Proverbs 26:8, one wouldn’t want to bind a stone in a sling that is used for something else; similarly, one would not want to give honor to a fool when none is due.

In Proverbs 26:9, a thorn in the hand of a drunkard is very dangerous; likewise, putting a proverb in the mouth of a fool can be costly.

In Proverbs 26:10, God will give the fool his due.

In Proverbs 26:11, a fool will repeat his folly (like Pharaoh refusing to let God’s people go in Exodus).

In Proverbs 26:12, there is more hope for a fool than for a man who is wise in his own eyes (Proverbs 29:20). Jesus illustrates this by the Pharisee’s prayer (Luke 18:10-14) and His words to the Laodicean church (Revelation 3:17).

Let us not act foolishly, but instead, help fools to become wise by sharing the love of Christ with them, that they too can become wise in the eyes of The Lord through obedience to the Gospel.